VTT’s new strategy seeks to significantly increase the commercialisation of research. The research centre aims to double both the number of startups emerging from VTT and its commercial revenue by 2030. This is expected to set off a chain reaction of growth: research becomes technology, technology becomes business, and business becomes jobs, exports and competitiveness. It strengthens Finland’s economy, security, security of supply and wellbeing.
VTT will focus on accelerating the growth of the startup ecosystem, renewing industries and strengthening societal resilience. To drive growth, VTT will place a strong emphasis on the commercialisation of research and on accelerating that process. The goal is to increase the impact of research and innovation activities.
Turning cutting-edge technology into growth
“Our task is to develop cutting-edge technology and, together with our customers and partners, turn it into growth. When our expertise becomes commercial innovation, Finnish companies grow, and when Finnish companies grow, Finland grows,” says Kalle Härkki, President and CEO of VTT.
Startups create new international business through innovation, which is why they are at the heart of VTT’s strategy. VTT supports growth companies by providing expertise, IP and development environments that enable the building of internationally competitive, top-tier companies.
Finland’s growth also comes from the renewal of established businesses. VTT helps companies accelerate development by shortening the journey from idea to pilot, from pilot to production, and from technology towards practical use.
Through innovation, VTT strengthens Finland’s resilience. Its role in defence and dual-use technologies is growing, and its research also plays a key role in other areas of resilience, such as the development of energy systems.
VTT targets global competitiveness in selected technology areas
VTT invests in technology areas where future markets will emerge. These include quantum technology, microelectronics, intelligent systems, industrial biotechnology, sustainable materials, clean processes and future energy solutions.
VTT strengthens its expertise through international collaboration with leading partners and top ecosystems. With strong and growing capabilities, the research centre is able to produce research and technology that is internationally competitive. VTT’s experts bring deep technological expertise to Finnish companies. This strengthens not only companies and technologies, but also the talent base of the entire Finnish economy.
According to Härkki, the core message of the new strategy is clear: “In the future, success will belong to those who can rapidly turn cutting-edge technology into business. Finland needs research, innovation and collaboration to achieve this.”